Nannup over 55s camping and concert no more!

A long-running Australia Day long weekend camping and concert event in Nannup has been cancelled after its organiser was unable to meet public liability insurance requirements imposed by the shire.

Local resident Daryl Barton announced the cancellation on Facebook last week, apologising to attendees and citing the shire’s requirement for $20 million public liability insurance as the deciding factor.

Mr Barton said the event had been running successfully for the past five years and was aimed primarily at over-60s and Grey Nomads.

The weekend combined free camping on his property along the banks of the Blackwood River, with live music, creating what he described as a relaxed, trouble-free atmosphere.

“All campers were fully self-contained with their own toilets, and I also supplied portaloos,” he said.

“Camping was free and there was a donation towards the artists collected on the night.

“I made nothing from it — I did it because I loved the atmosphere of happy people enjoying themselves.”

Mr Barton said the event also held strong community benefits, with many attendees returning year after year and supporting local businesses during their stay.

“The Nannup shopkeepers loved it because a lot of money was spent in town,” he said.

“Most of the campers had disposable income and were happy to support Nannup.”

According to Mr Barton, the shire had been aware of the event since its inception and had allowed it to proceed in previous years.

This year, however, the event was raised at a shire meeting by a councillor who Mr Barton says had previously attended and camped at the property.

“To be fair, the shire was helpful, but I couldn’t get the $20 million public liability insurance they required — and I tried everywhere,” he said.

“So I had to cancel.”

Mr Barton said his frustration stemmed from what he believes is inconsistent application of the rules, pointing to other events being allowed to proceed without similar insurance requirements.

Local resident Vangy Baker also expressed disappointment on Facebook, saying such restrictions stifle creativity and community events in regional towns.

“These issues kill so much great creativity and events in country towns that are great for community spirit,” Mr Baker wrote.

“Daryl, thanks so much for your efforts to date.”

The Shire of Nannup has been contacted for comment.